Core Viewpoint - Recently, Zhongyuan Bank has faced scrutiny due to multiple large equity sales on auction platforms and a controversial low dividend announcement, revealing challenges in its operational performance despite a rise in profitability [2][12]. Equity Sales - Multiple large equity stakes of Zhongyuan Bank are being auctioned on Alibaba's judicial auction platform, totaling approximately 594 million yuan [4]. - The major seller is Henan Hailing Industrial Development Co., which holds 243 million shares of Luoyang Bank, now converted to 281 million shares of Zhongyuan Bank following mergers [4]. - Another significant stake is held by Kaifeng Lanwei Highway Development Co., which has seen its shares in Pingdingshan Bank converted to 201 million shares of Zhongyuan Bank [4][5]. - Previous attempts to auction these stakes have failed, indicating a lack of buyer interest despite high levels of engagement [4]. Financial Performance - For the fiscal year 2024, Zhongyuan Bank reported operating income of 25.955 billion yuan, a decrease of 0.9% year-on-year, while net profit attributable to shareholders rose by 7% to 3.446 billion yuan [9][10]. - The bank's total assets reached 1.36 trillion yuan, an increase of 187.51 billion yuan from the previous year [9]. - The bank's non-performing loan (NPL) ratio stood at 2.02%, a slight decrease, but specific sectors like accommodation and catering saw an increase in NPLs [10]. Loan Concentration and Risk Management - The concentration of loans has increased, with the top ten borrowers accounting for 37.6% of the bank's net capital, up from 33.4% the previous year [10][11]. - The largest single borrower now represents 7.7% of net capital, indicating a growing risk if these borrowers face financial difficulties [10][11]. - Analysts suggest that Zhongyuan Bank needs to enhance its risk management through increased investment in financial technology and a comprehensive risk management system [11]. Dividend Policy - Zhongyuan Bank announced a dividend of 0.12 yuan per share, totaling 439 million yuan, which is significantly lower than the 30% minimum required by its own guidelines based on the average distributable profit over the last three years [12][13]. - The low dividend payout has raised concerns among investors, as it may indicate the bank's need to retain cash for operational challenges and asset management post-merger [12][13]. - Experts warn that the prolonged lack of dividends could undermine investor confidence and affect the bank's market attractiveness [13].
大额股权再登变卖台 中原银行业绩增长下暗藏隐礁